WOW. I’ve driven by it, wondered about it, thought about checking it out…and on Friday I finally did visit the Cascade County History Museum – and it was great. There are scores of items on display detailing the history of Cascade County – including Great Falls, Stockett, Tracy, Ulm, the Smelter, Tribal Americans, historic buildings, sports, medicine, education, and much more. So many pictures, too – absolutely fascinating to see life in Cascade County stretching back over 100 years.
(click anywhere on the pix to see them all full-size!)
There’s also a section devoted to “traveling” exhibits that changes periodically – right now there’s quilts hanging on the wall of this section, all with the theme of (I think) Variety Is The Spice Of Life. My favorite quilt was titled “The Spies Of Life” and featured Napoleon Solo and Ilya Kuryakin, aka the men from U.N.C.L.E. Heh.
And what would a museum be without a great gift shop? This one has hundreds of books about the history, culture, and people of Cascade County and Montana; and of course pretty cool souvenirs and trinkets. Also in this section is another “rotating” feature; currently on display and for sale is book and box art.
By the time we were done wandering and admiring and learning, we were convinced: we signed up for membership ($20 each). That will get us free admission for a year, 10% off purchases, invites to members-only events, and a newsletter.
All in all, a wonderful experience – of course now I’m kicking myself for not having visited the museum until now! If you haven’t been yet, trust me: get down there!
Cascade County History Museum
422 2nd Street South, phone 406-452-3462
Open Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am until 5:00 pm
I love the little minature buildings.